Human Remains Found in Suitcase in Newark

Authorities are investigating the discovery of human remains found in a suitcase Monday morning in Newark.

Newark Police Department and the Essex County Prosecutor's Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force are conducting the investigation following a phone call to police about the suitcase, found in the area of Raymond Boulevard and Van Buren Street near the Passaic River.

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray and Newark Police Director Samuel DeMaio announced today that detectives from the Newark Police Department and the Essex County Prosecutor’s Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force are attempting to identify the remains of the person who washed ashore on the south bank of the Passaic River adjacent to the exit ramp for the Jackson Street Bridge in the Ironbound.

The body appears to be that of a black female, which was found clothed in a large suitcase, the ECPO said. The female is described as being slight of build and was wearing gray slacks and a red blouse. An autopsy is being conducted to determine the cause of death.

Authorities were unsure how long the body had been in the water.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force at 1-877-847-7432.